Other US cities 'better' than New York

[m1shap3]

Inspired by another thread. I've never really fancied New York, although I'd probably go one day just because of the hype. However, I'd love to do some other US cities first. Can anyone recommend where to go?

Washington DC. Masses to do and see - all the Smithsonian museums and art galleries are brilliant, free and all in the same place.

@Soffit

I find myself coming back to this thread to say that if there is such a thing as a perfect city in the US then it probably is San Diego as others have pointed out. The museums and coast are wonderful as is the climate and the food and it is close enough to other interesting places to visit (including crossing over into Mexico for those seeking a contrast).

I potentially do see what you mean especially if you have been loads of times! I feel the same way about Carmel. People rave on about it but I found it very twee and Disney-fied to appeal to a certain type of tourist. California generally has that chilled out sedative effect which either drifts you into the zone or sends you fast asleep! It could be the ozone or perhaps the weed!

New York, LA, SF, Austin, Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, Detroit, Atlanta

Everywhere else I found pretty boring. Boston, Chicago, Philly, DC - all pretty boring

I lived in Boston for while and, after the initial holiday period. I found it a bit boring. old fashioned and stuck up.

I really like San Diego its just got a nice vibe.

I also like LA - thought I would hate it, but it has a charm. Helped by the fact that I absolutely love the Getty Centre.

I have come to really dislike San Francisco- loved it in the late 90s but the charm has gone and I don't feel safe there anymore.

To me DC is the perfect city break. The museums and monuments need to be seen to be believed- they are world class- but as the centre is a government machine it's not a place I could live.

I do like NYC - it's iconic- though a pricey city!